The Joy Of Our Home

By ALICE O’BRIEN Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket

The recent change in the clocks have made our evenings longer, with darkness arriving earlier. For those of us who are regular dog-walkers that means walking in the dark. During these nightly walks, I get little glimpses into the lives of those around me. Families watching TV or eating dinner, people reading their books under sitting room lamps, children playing video games or sitting on rugs by the fire playing with toys. It is amazing the amount of people who don’t close their curtains! What is most notable is the privilege we have to live in an area where we all have warm, comfortable homes. How lucky we are to have a safe space to spend our evenings. The mental health benefits of our homes are huge. Having control over our own environment gives us a huge sense of stability and comfort, which reduces our stress and anxiety. Providing a home for our families can help us gain a feeling of accomplishment and pride as it is a significant life achievement. There is also a good form of connection when we invest in our areas, getting involved in projects to better our neighbourhood is a great feeling. Social connections also bring us a sense of belonging. In this fast-paced life that we often have, our home can be the only place where we can truly slow down and breathe. When we are home after a long day we can finally relax and make time for the important things in life, like connecting with our family, sharing our stories of the day and chilling out. Our homes are more than just four walls and a place of shelter, they are a sanctuary that nourishes and rebuilds us.

So, whatever size your home is, and wherever it is, try to be grateful for it. Not everyone is lucky enough to have a home.

One thing though, if you live in a town, maybe consider closing your blinds so the dog-walkers aren’t looking in.